Problem solving using programming constructs
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can combine sequence, selection and iteration in a program to solve a problem.
Key learning points
- The programming constructs of sequence, selection and iteration can be combined to make more complex programs.
- Analysing a problem involves decomposing it into its constituent parts.
- Algorithms can be developed to solve a problem.
- A problem can be solved in multiple ways.
Keywords
Problem - a situation or task that needs to be solved
Decomposition - breaking down a problem into smaller parts to make the task more manageable
Solution - a means of solving a problem
Common misconception
Programming constructs cannot be combined in the same code block.
The programming constructs of sequence, selection and iteration can be combined within the same code block to make more complex programs.
Teacher tip
In this lesson pupils are asked to develop their own dance moves for the sprite. A sample plan is provided for modelling in the slide deck, but pupils should be encoruaged to design their own solution.
Equipment
Pupils will need access to a device with block-based programming software. Examples in this lesson use Scratch https://oak.link/scratch
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Which of these instructions is not a subroutine?
Q2.In computing, repeatedly executing instructions is known as ...
Q3. is the process of finding an error in your code and taking steps to fix the problem.
Q4.What is repeatedly running a sequence of instructions a set number of times known as?
Q5.What value would be held by the ‘name1’ variable and the ‘name2’ variable at the end of this program?
Q6.When the value of a variable is updated in a program, it's previous value is ...
Assessment exit quiz
4 Questions
Q1.The three main programming constructs are sequence, selection and .
Q2.Breaking a large problem down into smaller, more manageable parts is known as ...
Q3.Which programming construct is used in this code block?
Q4.Which programming construct is used in this code block?
To help you plan your 7 computing lesson on: Problem solving using programming constructs, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 7 computing lesson on: Problem solving using programming constructs, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 3 computing lessons from the Using fundamental programming constructs in a block-based language unit, dive into the full secondary computing curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.